“Muncaster Hawk and Owl Centre”:https://www.muncaster.co.uk/hawkowlcentre in the grounds of the castle houses a selection of birds of prey including eagles, owls, hawks and even vultures. As well as visiting the birds in their aviaries, the birds are the star attraction in the twice daily “flying displays”:https://www.muncaster.co.uk/hawkowlcentre/flying-displays held in the old rose garden.
The birds are brought out individually by the handlers who talk about them and then demonstrate them flying between the various perches set around the gardens. There was Pumpkin, the 14 week old eagle owl, who was still being trained. Gaston the 2 year old African Eagle Owl was a lot more confident as he swooped silently over our heads.
Pegasus, a black chested buzzard soared high above us. Shrew was a Lanner falcon and was wheeling and diving while she tried to catch the prey attacked to a lure being swung.
Mouse and Malarkey were African Hooded Vultures who sat and glowered from their post.
The shows are very popular and it is best to plan to arrive in plenty of time to get a good seat at the front.